Head Gardeners or Foreman Gardeners may be in charge of every aspect of the maintenance and development of a large garden or a section of a garden, for example:
- A historic garden such as a National Trust Property
- Section of a major municipal Parks Complex
- Section of a botanic garden
- Gardens in a commercial complex (such as a major shopping centre)
Typical Jobs
- Routine maintenance
- Minor landscaping and restoration jobs
Remuneration and Advancement Opportunities
Some people thrive in the right position, and gain a great deal of job satisfaction. Others find this type of job is an excellent stepping stone to something else (eg. Parks Manager or running their own horticultural business)
Risks & Stresses
Head gardeners perform better if they feel a level of ownership for the garden area(s) they are responsible for; but this can also cause stress if something goes wrong (even if not their fault); and if the sense of ownership is too strong, it can cause a sense of loss when they eventually leave the job.
Being a hands on, physical and outside job, there can be physical risks to the body over time. At the same time, physical work can help keep the body fit.
Being the senior person in a work crew can result in you being seen as "separate" to the other members of the team. For some, it can be a positive thing to be the person calling the shots; but for some personality types, it can be a struggle to control others in the team if their personalities do not blend well with yours.
How to Distinguish Yourself from the Competition
Learn about the history of garden you aim to work in and understand the things that motivates the employer. Develop broad skills so that you can deal with any garden related problem that arises, from machinery problems, to pest and disease issues, or landscape construction to turf repair and tree surgery.
Professional Bodies
Getting involved with the profession can help you become aware of opportunities arising before they get advertised. Networking can enhance your ability to solve problems by having fiends you can approach for advice when the occasion calls for it.
Insurance
Consider Professional Indemnity Insurance if you are advising people about horticulture. Also seriously consider Public Liability insurance; and discuss other possible needs with an insurance expert. This school has established arrangements for you to access personal liability insurance when you study with us.
Recommended Courses
Useful courses to start with might be:
RHS Certificate II http://www.thecareersguide.com/product.aspx?id=106
Certificate in Horticulture VHT002 (NB:This is closer to a certificate IV) http://www.thecareersguide.com/product.aspx?id=99